Episode 510: LIVE from ILADS: Nikki Schultek - Uncovering the Infection Connection to Alzheimer’s

Nikki Schultek, Executive Director of the Alzheimer Pathobiome Initiative, shares groundbreaking research at the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference.

The initiative is investigating the connection between infections—such as Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, and long COVID—and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

ILADS provides a crucial platform for researchers to collaborate, break down silos, and drive innovation in chronic illness research.

A recent symposium brought together experts across multiple disciplines to explore microbial drivers of brain diseases.

The team has submitted a major grant proposal to advance research on infectious and microbiome influences on Alzheimer’s.

A newly published review article in the Journal of Infectious Diseases highlights key findings and perspectives from the initiative.

Insights into host vulnerabilities, including the role of the ApoE4 gene, are shaping a deeper understanding of individual susceptibility to neurodegenerative conditions.

The discussion underscores systemic healthcare challenges in addressing chronic, complex diseases and the urgent need for research-driven changes in medical practice.